Trailblazing genderless supermodel Elton Ilirjani, also known as HANKO, captivated audiences as he opened Albanian designer Ema Savahl’s runway show during Miami Art Week 2024. The event took place on December 5 at Dua Miami, Autograph Collection, and was part of the fourth annual Project Zed, which celebrated culture, art, design, and sustainability.

Elton Ilirjani, is known for bringing a theatrical flair to runway shows and adding drama to fashion. The New York-based Albanian model, with over 12 million Instagram followers, began his modeling career just a few years ago. In that short time, he has made a huge impact, becoming the first-ever genderless model to walk at Seoul Fashion Week. Elton has also graced the runways of major global events, including Tokyo Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week, Milan Fashion Week, and Paris Fashion Week, among others. Elton has become a symbol of empowerment and inclusivity in the fashion industry.

This time, Elton’s electrifying presence brought Ema Savahl’s vision to life. Donning a striking emerald green ensemble inspired by the spirit of the forest, he showcased a handcrafted corset adorned with emerald gemstones, paired with a flowing green skirt veil and a moss-adorned headpiece. Elton’s makeup and styling, done by Mirandaaaa Glam Studio, featured dramatic, willow-like fabric pieces extending from his fingers, embodying the graceful movements of nature.

Elton’s performance went beyond modeling; he transformed the runway into a dynamic experience, raising his arms in sweeping motions and interacting with photographers to create a theatrical spectacle. “This collection reminds us of our connection to nature, Elton remarked…

“Wearing Ema’s couture felt like becoming a living forest installation, a reminder of our need to nurture Mother Earth.”

Albanian designer Ema Koja founded Ema Savahl in 1996, and the brand is celebrated for its handmade, hand-painted couture that transforms every woman into a work of art. Her designs, which range from cocktail dresses to bridal wear, are practical yet exquisite, boasting easy travel and hand-washable features.

Albanian Fairytale

The event was truly an Albanian affair—an Albanian designer, Albanian model, and an Albanian-owned hotel. Recently, Albanian culture has been gaining momentum in the U.S. “It was a true Albanian fairytale,” said Elton. “Ema and I are spiritually connected as artists; we believe in the earth’s energy, and this runway show brought forth the warm energy of the earth and the opening of all chakras.” He continued, “It was all Albanian, with an Albanian spirit at the heart of Miami. Albanians are the fastest, most adaptive people, and we’re blending our existence with American beauty. It was a moment of Albanian spirit flourishing in the heart of Miami.”

This isn’t Elton’s first time walking a runway in Miami; he previously collaborated with the House of Mua Mua in 2022, among other shows.

“Miami is always special. Especially during Art Basel Miami Beach, it’s one of the must-see art cities in the world. Miami is always beautiful, full of light, and filled with wonderful and powerful energy, and I feel honored to bring Albanian artistry to such a global stage“- said Elton Ilirjani

Through his groundbreaking approach to modeling and fearless creativity, Elton Ilirjani continues to redefine the runway, proving that fashion is, indeed, for everyone.

Special Contributions: A special thanks to Nadja Sayej and Forbes for their valuable contributions to this article. Images provided by Arun Nevader.